Background: Studying the antioxidant vitamins consumption, particularly in high-risk groups such as factory workers with high exposure to toxic metals is emphasized. Few studies have investigated mediators in dietary interventions. Understanding the behavioral change mediators is important for indicating the most effective constructs of educational interventions. Aim: The purpose of this study was to determine mediators of vitamins E and C consumption behavior changing intervention based on Protection Motivation Theory for cement factory workers. Methods: Workers (N=140) were assigned to intervention group and a control. The content of intervention included lectures with power point presentation, group discussion, individual counseling sessions and educational pamphlets and booklets. Workers completed Protection Motivation Theory and Food Frequency Questionnaires at baseline, post-intervention, and at the six-month follow up. Results: Results showed that perceived severity, perceived vulnerability, intention and knowledge were mediators in the intervention group. This showed the efficacy and importance of these constructs as mediators of vitamins E and C consumption behavior. Conclusion: The results provided evidence that both educational intervention were successful in increasing vitamins E and C consumption through changes in the structures among cement factory workers.
